Is This For You?
You're a great fit if you check most of these boxes:
✓ 20+ years old
✓ 3.0+ GPA
✓ Biology, Zoology, or related field (2 yrs college) — or 1 yr zoo/vet experience
✓ Can lift up to 60 lbs
✓ Pass drug & background screening
✓ Hardworking, dedicated, self-motivated
✓ Can commit to 40 hrs/week (8am–5pm)
✓ Animal care experience preferred (not required)
*3 years of verifiable experience in an unrelated field is also accepted in lieu of college study.
What To Expect
Your Responsibilities:
Schedule
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Cleaning animal enclosures
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Preparing diets for the animals
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Animal training & enrichment
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Light maintenance tasks
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Assisting with educational tours
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5-day work week (4 days possible)
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Minimum 40 hours per week
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Typical hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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90-day program (4 terms/year)
What We Provide:
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Fully furnished housing (bedding & towels)
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Uniform shirt
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All materials, curriculum & training
What You Provide:
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Transportation to/from Tiger Creek
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Personal meals
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Hiking/work boots + work pants (khaki/black/navy)
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Personal spending money
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Gloves + layering coat (November–March)
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Personal rain gear
How to Apply
Submit the following documents together with your application:
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Completed application form
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Completed background check form
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Cover letter (your experience, reasons for applying, career goals)
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Resume
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Proof of tetanus shot (within the last 3 years)
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Negative TB test results
International Applicants
Tiger Creek welcomes international interns. You will need to obtain a J-1 visa (work-study). We will sign the required government documentation to support your application — however, we do not provide financial assistance for visa fees.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
NO DIRECT CONTACT WITH
BIG CATS
This program does NOT permit direct contact with exotic animals, including tigers, lions, and other dangerous or potentially dangerous animals.
Direct contact is defined as any physical contact with any animal, including reaching limbs or other body parts through gate openings or fencing in an attempt to touch an animal.
FAQ
Q: I will be 20 years old when my internship starts, but I’m only 19 years old now. May I apply?
A: Yes, if you are 20 years old by the start date of your internship.
Q: I am currently a sophomore; however, I’ll be a junior at the time of my internship. May I apply?
A: Yes, you must be at least a junior by the time your internship begins.
Q: I am a college graduate; may I apply even if I’m no longer actively enrolled in college?
A: Yes, we accept applications from college graduates in addition to current students.
Q: I don’t have a degree nor am I actively enrolled in a college. May I apply?
A: Yes, if you have at least 2 years of verifiable work experience and are at least 20 years old.
Q: I have a pet. May they come with me?
A: No, pets are not allowed.
Q: I have a spouse or a significant other. Can they live with me on site?
A: No, housing is only provided for the individual enrolled in the internship program.
Q: Are interns paid during their time?
A: No, Tiger Creek only provides housing.
Q: Can I take a part time job while serving my internship?
A: No, Tiger Creek internships require a full time commitment. We expect interns to focus entirely on their responsibilities and training during their time with us.
Q: How much money would be required to cover food and entertainment?
A: We recommend budgeting at least $200 per month for food and personal expenses, although this varies depending on individual preferences.
Q: I have my own vehicle. May I drive there and use it to run personal errands while there?
A: Yes, you are welcome to bring your own car.
Q: Do I need to pay for my own travel to Tiger Creek and back home after my internship?
A: Yes, you are responsible for arranging your transportation. If flying, please arrive at Tyler Pounds Field Airport (TYR). Provide us with your flight details, and we will arrange for pickup. Unfortunately, we are unable to pick up from Dallas.
Q: I have a severe medical condition. Will it affect my performance?
A: It depends on your personal capabilities. We have successfully worked with interns with disabilities or medical conditions. The internship involves physically demanding work, so it’s essential to assess what you can handle. Please disclose any conditions before starting the internship.
Q: Are internships available year round?
A: Yes, the internship program runs continuously throughout the year. We offer four 90 day terms and accept up to 10 interns per term.
Q: May I stay less than 90 days?
A: No, we require interns to commit to the full 90 day term. Stays shorter than this duration would classify you as a volunteer.
Q: May I stay longer than 90 days?
A: Extensions are subject to management approval and availability for the following term. Exceptional performance may lead to extension opportunities or consideration for a second term.
Q: Is it possible to have my internship terminated?
A: Internships are for the full 90 day term; however, poor performance or safety violations may result in termination.
Q: What if rules are intentionally broken?
A: Intentional rule violations will result in immediate removal from the premises along with your belongings.
Q: Is extension from internship to employment possible?
A: Yes, upon completing your internship, we consider candidates for employment based on performance. Animal care positions are typically offered to qualified interns.
Q: I have already sent in my application but haven’t heard from you yet. Does that mean I didn’t get the internship, or that you didn’t receive my packet?
A: Due to the volume of applications, it takes a few weeks to review all applicants, conduct interviews, and contact references. You will receive notification of your status via phone or email once all decisions are finalized.
Q: I have a question that is not covered in this section. How do I find the answer?
A: For any unanswered questions, please contact us at internships@tigercreek.org